There are 2 way(s) to get from Kaohsiung to Tainan
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
THSR stations are often outside city centers. For Kaohsiung to Tainan, the THSR station (Zuoying) is north of the city, while TRA stations are central. Factor in transfer time and cost to your final destination when comparing.
Remember that iconic spots like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and Taroko Gorge are exclusively reachable by bus. Always confirm your transport type – don't let a misplaced train assumption derail your mountain plans.
For shorter inter-city routes like Kaohsiung to Tainan, express buses can sometimes be cheaper and offer similar comfort to TRA trains, especially if you value direct routes. Check both for the best deal.
Especially during peak season or holidays, booking your THSR, TRA, or even popular bus tickets in advance ensures you get a seat. Use platforms like 12go.asia for easy online booking and instant confirmation.
While THSR is fast, don't forget the time to reach its station and then your final destination. Sometimes, a slightly slower TRA train or bus with a more central drop-off might be quicker overall.
🛣️ The journey experience
Navigating Taiwan's diverse transport network can feel a bit like solving a puzzle, especially when you're planning an independent trip and want to get it right. From abroad, it's not always clear whether you need a high-speed train, a local train, an express bus, or even a ferry or flight for those island escapes. Our goal is to cut through the confusion and give you the honest, door-to-door times and real prices you need to make smart choices, not just push the fastest option.
For your trip from Kaohsiung to Tainan, you have excellent options. The fastest is definitely the THSR (High-Speed Rail), whisking you between cities in a blink. However, the slower TRA (Taiwan Railways Administration) train offers a more central arrival in Tainan and can often be a good deal. Express buses are also a viable choice, usually offering direct routes and competitive prices, especially if you're travelling light and enjoy the scenery.
Forget the worry of overpaying or turning up at the wrong station. While places like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and Taroko Gorge are indeed bus-only, and islands require ferries or flights, the route from Kaohsiung to Tainan is straightforward. You won't be caught off guard assuming a train exists where it doesn't. We'll help you see exactly which mode of transport is best for your specific needs, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey every time.
Frequently asked questions — Kaohsiung → Tainan
You have three main options: the THSR (High-Speed Rail), the TRA (Taiwan Railways Administration) local train, and intercity express buses. The THSR is the fastest, connecting Kaohsiung's Zuoying Station to Tainan's THSR station. The TRA offers a more central station-to-station service. Buses are also a convenient and often cheaper alternative for this route.
The THSR journey is incredibly fast, around 15-20 minutes, with tickets typically costing about €6-8. However, factor in transfer time to and from the THSR stations, which are outside the city centers. TRA trains take about 30-45 minutes and cost €4-6. Express buses take around 1 hour and cost about €4, often dropping you centrally. Your door-to-door time will vary based on your exact start and end points.
For Kaohsiung to Tainan, often yes. While THSR is fast, its stations are peripheral. If your final destination in Tainan is closer to the TRA station or a bus stop, the TRA train or an express bus can be smarter. They offer more central drop-offs, potentially saving you transfer time and cost from the THSR station, even if the main journey is slightly longer.
You can book THSR and TRA tickets online via their official websites or third-party platforms like 12go.asia for convenience and instant confirmation. Bus tickets can often be bought directly at the station or through operators' apps. For this short route, advance booking isn't always essential outside of peak times, but it's recommended for peace of mind, especially for THSR.
✨ Why visit Tainan?
- ✓ Explore Anping Old Fort and Anping Tree House, witnessing centuries of history and nature reclaiming structures.
- ✓ Indulge in Tainan's renowned street food scene: try danzai noodles, oyster omelets, and beef soup.
- ✓ Visit Chihkan Tower (Fort Provintia), an iconic red-brick fortress with beautiful gardens and temples.
- ✓ Wander through the narrow lanes of Shennong Street, an atmospheric alleyway with traditional shops and cafes.
- ✓ Discover the intricate artistry of Confucius Temple, Taiwan's first and most revered Confucian temple.
☀️ When to visit Tainan?
SUBTROPICAL HUMID
October to March — Mild and dry weather, ideal for walking and outdoor exploration.
What to do in Tainan?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Tainan?
For an independent francophone traveler, 2 to 3 full days are ideal to explore Tainan's historical sites, temples, and culinary scene without rushing. If you're short on time, a concentrated 1.5-day visit allows you to hit the main highlights. Consider adding an extra day if you plan day trips or want to delve deeper into the local culture.
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